Charlotte, N.C., Oct. 18, 2016 – Novant Health Cancer Care continues to demonstrate its commitment to offering the most advanced treatment options to patients with breast cancer by becoming the first hospital in North Carolina to use the new SAVI SCOUT radar localization system during breast conservation surgeries. An alternative to wire localization, SCOUT is an FDA-cleared device used by surgeons and radiologists to precisely locate and direct the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.
“Breast cancer surgery can be physically and emotionally distressing for women, and we strive to find ways to create a better experience – and better outcomes – for our patients,” said Dr. Peter Turk, surgical oncologist and director of the Novant Health multidisciplinary breast cancer program at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center. “SCOUT resolves one of the most difficult aspects of breast conservation surgery by eliminating the need to place a wire inside breast tissue to locate a tumor.”
SCOUT uses nonradioactive, radar technology to provide real-time surgical guidance during breast surgery. Rather than placing a wire immediately before surgery, a SCOUT reflector is placed in the target tissue up to 30 days before the procedure. During surgery, the SCOUT guide accurately detects the location of the reflector and the tumor.
“Patients are finding it much less painful and stressful relative to needle localization,” said Dr. Turk. “It is safer for the staff, with no sharp needles to work around in surgery, radiology or pathology.”
The ability to precisely locate and direct the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure enables surgeons to increase the probability of complete cancer removal and reduce the likelihood of needing follow-up surgeries – a huge advantage for early-stage breast cancer patients. In addition, the ability to strategically plan the incision may result in less tissue being removed during surgery, resulting in better cosmetic outcomes.
“We’re proud to be the first hospital in the state to be utilizing the innovative SCOUT infrared locations system,” said Dr. Nicole Abinanti, radiologist and director of women’s imaging with Mecklenburg Radiology Associates at Novant Health. “As research and technology advances, we’re committed to adopting the safest and most progressive treatment options for patients with breast cancer.”
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